Monday, September 17
Bellwether Check out Bellevue’s annual arts festival today through Sep. 23. Artwork includes painting, sculpture, video and daily performances. Admission to the Bellevue Arts Museum, where they’ll have activities just for kids, is also free. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Bellevue.
Pajamarama! Evening Family Story Time Zip up those fleece onsies and grab your kids’ favorite snuggle buddy! Enjoy rhymes, songs and surprises. Ages 3 to 6 with adult; families are welcome. 6:45 to 7:30 p.m. Shoreline Branch Library.
Tuesday, September 18
Story Time at the University Bookstore Enjoy dramatic readings of the best in new and classic kids books. Recommended for ages 3 to 7. 11 a.m. to Noon. Seattle (U-District).
Kaleidoscope Play and Learn Listen to stories, sing songs and do simple arts and crafts. Free play and circle time from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. Caregivers are encouraged to bring a lunch or snack and eat together from 11:45 to noon. Rainier Beach Branch Library, Seattle.
Detective Cookie’s Chess Club Learn to play chess with the urban club that’s been ongoing for more than a decade. Kids and teens ages 7 and older are welcome. 3 to 5 p.m. Rainier Beach Branch Library.
Wednesday, September 19
Open Play at the PlayGarden Drop by this beautiful, inclusive park for a fun afternoon of play with kids of all abilities. Expert staff is on site to lead activities and offer support as needed. 3 to 6 p.m. Seattle (Judkins Park area).
Thursday, September 20
Mid-Autumn Festival Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival at the Lake City Farmers' Market. Taste a moon cake, make a lantern and hear stories about the holiday. 3:30 to 7 p.m. Lake City Branch Library/Lake City Farmers’ Market.
Story Time at Top Ten Toys PJ Library and Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle are offering free children’s books and music to families every Thursday at Top Ten Toys. Join Betsy as she shares stories and songs. Best for children ages 6 to 8. 11:30 to noon. Ballard.
Friday, September 21
(PARK)ing Day Keep an eye on the parking situation today. Seattleites are temporarily turning on-street parking spaces into public places to raise awareness about the importance of a walk-able, livable, healthy city. We’ve seen parking spaces transformed into gardens, mini golf, craft zones and little luaus. Check the online map for participating locations throughout Seattle.
Ranger Program: The Good Garter Snake We didn’t know that snakes have titles, but apparently the Garter Snake—the only native snake in Bellevue—has been named Creature of the Year. Your reptile-loving kiddos will learn how this notorious creature spends its days in our backyards. Pre-registration required. 10 to 11 a.m. Lake Hills Greenbelt Ranger Station, Bellevue.
The Great Wallingford Wurst Festival What is it about fall that makes everyone want to eat sausage? Head to Wallingford today to get your bratwurst fix. Food, rides, games, crafts, a book sale and more. 4 to 10 p.m. today and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday. St. Benedict School, Seattle (Wallingford).
Saturday, September 22
Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day Museums all over the country are free today. So it’s a good thing Seattle has some of the best! Print a ticket online and round up the whole family to check out Seattle Art Museum, MOHAI, Museum of Glass, the Wing Luke Museum (they’re doing a special superhero theme) and many more.
Walk Now for Autism Speaks Get in some morning exercise while supporting a great cause. This walk raises awareness for families affected by autism. There’ll be a kids’ area and a resource fair, too. Free, though fundraising is encouraged. 9 a.m. registration; 10:15 a.m. walk. Mural Amphitheater at Seattle Center.
Family Weekend Walk Don’t forget your binoculars for this walk. Meet at the Arboretum to scan the skies for feathered friends. You’ll learn where birds migrate in fall and how they accomplish their epic journeys. 1 to 2:30 p.m. Washington Park Arboretum, Seattle.
Luminata Lantern Parade Celebrate the autumnal equinox with a parade at Green Lake featuring music, lanterns, lights, costumes and more. This is a late evening event – perfect for the family night owls. 7 to 10 p.m. Green Lake Park, Seattle.
Sustainable Ballard Festival Learn about ways your family can commit to more sustainable living. The event will have hands-on activities, live music, urban farm animals and more. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ballard Commons Park, Seattle.
National Public Lands Day Lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic lunch and head for the hills. National Park admission is free today! Washington state parks also are free.
Sunday, September 23
Sammamish Valley Fall Harvest Celebration Meet local farmers, peruse farm-inspired art, sample freshly pressed cider, dig in some soil or take a walk in a peaceful farm field. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Sammamish Valley, Woodinville (see website for various locations and times).
Glass Pumpkin Festival If you have a wily toddler, steel yourself for this pumpkin “patch.” 700+ colorful, handcrafted glass pumpkins and gourds will be on display in the Schack glassblowing studio. On Sundays you can deter little ones from grabby hand temptations with art and activities especially for kids. Noon to 5 p.m. Schack Art Center, Everett.
Sunday Public Sail Each Sunday the Center for Wooden Boats offers free 45-minute rides on Lake Union. Set sail on one of the classic boats. Sign up for a slot in person; several trips throughout the day. Space is limited. Sign up begins at 10 a.m. Center for Wooden Boats, Lake Union.
Want more? Check out our Family Events Calendar, searchable by age, location and cost.
